Dallas Stars (22-11-5) vs. Minnesota Wild (17-17-4)
Dallas Stars vs. Minnesota Wild 1/8/24 – At an anticipated NHL Regular Season matchup on Monday, January 8, 2024 at Xcel Energy Center, Dallas Stars boasting a strong 22-11-5 record take on Minnesota Wild with an equal 17-17-4 mark – both teams look poised for an intense contest as both aim to balance out their win/loss record; fans and experts offering NHL free picks should expect an exciting encounter!
The Dallas Stars, known for their formidable offensive lineup, will bring their A game against Minnesota Wild. Key players such as Jason Robertson and Joe Pavelski have been pivotal to Dallas’ success – contributing 39 points from 38 games each while Matt Duchene contributed 35 points of his own to increase Dallas’ offensive arsenal and help beat Minnesota defense. Matt Duchene added 35 points himself; their ability to consistently find the back of the net will play an essential role in defeating them.
Minnesota Wild, led by Joel Eriksson Ek, Matt Boldy and Marco Rossi have their own formidable combination. Eriksson Ek has been an effective performer, scoring 26 points during this year. Boldy’s scoring prowess combined with Rossi’s balanced play makes the Wild’s offense capable of penetrating Dallas Stars defensive line and creating scoring chances against an aggressive Dallas defense. The combination will prove critical to Minnesota winning this one!
Dallas Stars vs. Minnesota Wild 1/8/24 Game Info
| When: | Monday, January 8, 2024, at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Xcel Energy Center |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Scott Wedgewood vs. Goaltender Filip Gustavsson
Scott Wedgewood of the Dallas Stars brings experience and resilience to the ice. After 18 games this season, Wedgewood has made 481 saves with an 0.894 save percentage – showing his consistency behind the goaltender mask. He has performed admirably in high-pressure situations, particularly those involving the Wild. Yet his goals against average of 3.17 per game and somewhat lower save percentage compared to elite goaltenders suggest an area for improvement that the Wild’s sharpshooters could potentially exploit. Wedgewood’s exceptional shootout save percentage could prove pivotal if the game comes down to the wire. His performance against Eriksson Ek and Boldy will be key in keeping Stars defense intact.
Filip Gustavsson of the Minnesota Wild has proven more reliable in goal this season. Playing 22 games this year and posting an impressive save percentage of 0.903, Gustavsson has proven his ability to make crucial saves when needed. Gustavsson provides the Wild with an able last line of defense, boasting a 2.96 goals against average. Additionally, Gustavsson’s performance in shootouts (80% save rate) showcases his prowess under high-pressure situations. Agility and fast reflexes will be essential in countering the Stars’ potent offensive line, led by Robertson and Pavelski – two elite shooters. Gustavsson will likely play an integral part in deciding the outcome of this matchup between Gustavsson’s goaltending and Stars offensive prowess, with Gustavsson’s performance potentially tipping the scales toward Minnesota if it sees high shot totals during play.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
Betting odds for the game have yet to be set, though given both teams’ recent performances, the Stars may enter as slight favorites. Bettors should pay particular attention to odds that offer value bets in light of both teams’ offensive capabilities.
Dallas Stars Betting Trends
The Stars have gone 4-1 over their past five games, showing strong form. Yet their 6-11 record against the spread in road games suggests potential vulnerability when betting away from home – something to bear in mind with them playing at Minnesota Wild’s home field and totals going over in previous matches suggesting a potentially high-scoring contest could take place.
Minnesota Wild Betting Trends
The Wild’s recent 5 games show they have struggled for consistency; yet their 11-7 record against the spread in road games indicates resilience against difficult conditions. Their home totals going over may indicate high scoring encounters that provide opportunities for over/under bettors.
Dallas Stars vs. Minnesota Wild 1/8/24 Betting Picks
Under analysis and betting trends, it appears likely that this game will be tightly contested. While the Stars seem to have an advantage with their offensive strength and recent form, don’t underestimate Minnesota Wild’s home field advantage and their ability to surprise.
Bettors looking for value may consider betting over/under markets given both teams’ historical scoring trends. As a premium expert tip, keep a close eye on moneyline and puck line odds released as soon as they become available, as there may be value in backing an underdog in such an unpredictable matchup.
Free Pick and Prediction: Dallas Stars 4, Minnesota Wild 3.